Top 10 Myths About Lab-Grown Diamonds: What's Really True?

May 3, 2024

The increasing interest in environmentally friendly diamond alternatives has led to the popularity of lab grown diamonds as a compelling option. Despite their appeal there are misunderstandings and false beliefs that have surrounded the perception of these gemstones, creating confusion for consumers. This detailed guide is designed to clarify the truth behind lab grown diamonds by disproving the top 10 myths and providing you with valuable insights to make a well informed decision.

Myth #1: Lab-Grown Diamonds Aren't Real Diamonds

There is a misconception surrounding lab grown diamonds that they are not “real” diamonds. This belief arises from a lack of understanding about how these diamonds are created. The reality is that lab grown diamonds are essentially the same as diamonds, in terms of their chemical composition, physical properties and optical characteristics to their natural counterparts.

The main difference lies in their origin: natural diamonds are formed over billions of years deep within the Earth's mantle under extreme heat and pressure conditions, while lab-grown diamonds are created in highly controlled environments that replicate these conditions [1].

Through advanced technological processes, such as Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) or High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT), scientists can precisely recreate the conditions necessary for diamond formation. The resulting lab-grown diamonds possess the same crystalline structure, refractive index, and chemical composition as natural diamonds, making them indistinguishable to the naked eye and most gemmological equipment.

Myth #2: Lab-Grown Diamonds are Less Valuable than Natural Diamonds

There is a misunderstanding that lab created diamonds are always worth less than natural ones. Although natural diamonds have historically been valued highly, the worth of lab grown diamonds should not be underestimated.

Lab-grown diamonds offer several advantages that contribute to their value proposition:

Ethical and Environmental Advantages: Lab-grown diamonds eliminate the need for environmentally destructive mining practices and the potential for human rights violations associated with some natural diamond sources.
Controlled Quality: The controlled growing environments allow for the production of lab-grown diamonds with superior quality characteristics, such as higher colour and clarity grades, compared to many natural diamonds.
Potential for Long-term Value Appreciation: As consumer demand for ethical and sustainable diamond alternatives increases, lab-grown diamonds may experience a rise in value over time, similar to the trajectory of cultured pearls.

While the initial cost of lab-grown diamonds may be lower due to the production process, their value should not be solely equated with their rarity. Instead, it should be evaluated based on their quality, ethical considerations, and potential for long-term appreciation.

Myth #3: Lab-Grown Diamonds are Easily Detectable

Some people think it's simple to identify and separate lab-grown diamonds from mined diamonds. However, this myth is not at all accurate. Even for experienced gemmologists, distinguishing lab-grown diamonds has grown more difficult due to developments in diamond growing technologies.

Gemmological laboratories employ sophisticated techniques, such as spectroscopy and microscopic analysis, to examine the atomic structure and growth patterns of diamonds [2]. While subtle differences may exist between natural and lab-grown diamonds, these distinctions can be incredibly minute and require advanced equipment and expertise to detect.

Furthermore, it is becoming more possible to create lab-grown diamonds that are almost identical to mined diamonds as diamond growing techniques advance. This has raised concerns about the possibility of unreported lab-grown diamonds entering the market inside the diamond business, underscoring the necessity of strict certification and disclosure procedures.

Myth #4: Lab-Grown Diamonds are Inferior in Quality

Many people may not realise that lab created diamonds can actually rival or surpass natural diamonds when it comes to colour, clarity and cut. The controlled settings in which lab grown diamonds are produced leads to the creation of diamonds with exceptional quality features.

Colour: Lab-grown diamonds can be produced in a wide range of colours, including the highly coveted D-F colourless range, by carefully controlling the growth parameters.
Clarity: The absence of natural inclusions and blemishes often found in mined diamonds allows for the creation of lab-grown diamonds with exceptional clarity grades, such as Internally Flawless (IF) or Flawless (FL).
Cut: Advanced cutting and polishing techniques, combined with the ability to start with a rough diamond of specific dimensions, enable lab-grown diamonds to achieve optimal cut proportions for maximum brilliance and fire.

It's important to note that quality grading for lab-grown diamonds follows the same industry-standard criteria as natural diamonds, ensuring a consistent and objective evaluation process.

Myth #5: Lab-Grown Diamonds are Not Eco-Friendly

Lab-grown diamonds are generally thought to be a more environmentally responsible option than natural diamond mining, which is frequently linked to serious environmental effects like land degradation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. However, some people argue that the environmental advantages of lab-grown diamonds are outweighed by the energy-intensive production techniques employed in their manufacturing.

The truth is more nuanced. While lab-grown diamond production does require energy inputs, the overall environmental footprint is significantly lower than that of traditional diamond mining . Here are some key points to consider:

Reduced Carbon Footprint: Lab-grown diamond production typically has a lower carbon footprint than natural diamond mining, with some producers even using renewable energy sources [3].
Energy Efficiency Improvements: The industry is continuously working to improve energy efficiency and adopt more sustainable practices, such as recycling and waste reduction.
Land and Water Impact: Lab-grown diamond production has a minimal impact on land and water resources compared to the extensive mining operations required for natural diamonds.

Moreover, lab-grown diamonds have the potential to disrupt the traditional diamond supply chain, reducing the environmental impact associated with transportation and processing of natural diamonds.

Myth #6: Lab-Grown Diamonds are Synthetic or Fake

The labels "synthetic" and "fake" are commonly used when discussing man made diamonds, which spreads the misconception that they are not real diamonds. However, this classification is incorrect and deceptive.

Lab-grown diamonds are not synthetic, as they are not imitations or simulants made from different materials. Instead, they are real diamonds that are grown in controlled environments using advanced technological processes [4].

The term "synthetic" is more accurately applied to diamond simulants or imitations made from materials like cubic zirconia or moissanite, which have different chemical compositions and properties than diamonds.

To avoid confusion, industry professionals and organisations prefer to use terms like "lab-grown," "cultivated," or "man-made" when referring to diamonds created through technological processes. These terms accurately describe the origin of these diamonds while acknowledging their authenticity as real diamonds.

Myth #7: Lab-Grown Diamonds Cannot be Certified

One common misconception about lab created diamonds is the idea that they cannot receive certification from respected labs. However this is incorrect. Renowned independent gemmological institutions like the Gemmological Institute of America (GIA) and the International Gemmological Institute (IGI) have developed certification procedures for lab grown diamonds.

These certification processes involve rigorous testing and evaluation to assess the diamond's quality characteristics, such as colour, clarity, and cut, as well as its origin as a lab-grown diamond [5]. The resulting certificates provide consumers with valuable information and assurance about the diamond's characteristics and authenticity.

Moreover, many diamond retailers and jewellers now offer certified lab-grown diamonds, further enhancing consumer confidence and transparency in the industry. Certification plays a crucial role in ensuring that lab-grown diamonds are properly identified and disclosed, promoting ethical practices and consumer protection.

Myth #8: Lab-Grown Diamonds are Not Suitable for Engagement Rings

Diamonds have long been associated with engagement rings, symbolising love, commitment, and everlasting bonds. However, the belief that lab-grown diamonds are unsuitable for this significant occasion is a myth that needs to be dispelled.

While the emotional and symbolic significance of diamonds in engagement rings remains unchanged, lab-grown diamonds offer a compelling alternative for couples seeking ethical and sustainable options. Here are some key considerations:

Cost Savings: Lab-grown diamonds can provide significant cost savings compared to natural diamonds, allowing couples to allocate their resources towards other aspects of their celebration or future.
Ethical and Environmental Considerations: For couples who prioritise ethical and environmental values, lab-grown diamonds represent a socially responsible choice that aligns with their beliefs.
Customization and Uniqueness: The ability to create lab-grown diamonds with specific colour and quality characteristics opens up new opportunities for personalization and unique designs.

Ultimately, the choice of an engagement ring should be a reflection of the couple's values, preferences, and personal significance, regardless of whether the diamond is natural or lab-grown.

Myth #9: Lab-Grown Diamonds are a New Phenomenon

While lab-grown diamonds have gained significant attention and popularity in recent years, the concept and technology behind their creation are not new phenomena. The journey of lab-grown diamonds dates back over six decades.

In 1954, the first successful synthesis of a diamond crystal was achieved by researchers at General Electric (GE) [6]. This ground-breaking achievement laid the foundation for the development of lab-grown diamond technology.

Over the following decades, scientists and businesses dedicated themselves to enhancing and perfecting the methods used to produce lab grown diamonds, aiming to boost efficiency and reduce costs. Key milestones include:

1970s: The development of the Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) method by researchers in Russia and the United States.
1980s: Commercialization efforts by companies like Sumitomo Electric Industries and Apollo Diamond, Inc..
2000s: Advancements in HPHT and CVD techniques, enabling the production of larger and higher-quality lab-grown diamonds.

In today's world various companies globally participate in creating and supplying lab grown diamonds due to advancements in technology, consumer preferences and a commitment to sustainability and standards.

Myth #10: Lab-Grown Diamonds are Only for Fashion Jewellery

Another common misconception is that lab-grown diamonds are solely intended for fashion jewellery or costume pieces. However, this myth underestimates the diverse applications and potential of lab-grown diamonds across various industries.

While lab-grown diamonds have indeed found a strong market in the fashion jewellery sector, their unique properties and versatility make them suitable for a wide range of applications:

Industrial Applications: Lab-grown diamonds are used in industrial cutting tools, abrasives, and heat sinks due to their exceptional hardness and thermal conductivity.
Scientific and Technological Applications: The semiconductor industry utilises lab-grown diamonds for their excellent electrical and thermal properties in applications such as radiation detection and high-power electronics.
High-end Jewellery: Luxury jewellers like Blackwell Jewellers and designers are increasingly incorporating lab-grown diamonds into their collections, recognizing their beauty, quality, and ethical value proposition.

As the production of lab-grown diamonds continues to evolve and become more cost-effective, their applications are likely to expand further, disrupting various industries and driving innovation.

Conclusion

Throughout this comprehensive guide, we have explored and debunked the top 10 myths surrounding lab-grown diamonds. By separating fact from fiction, it becomes clear that these innovative gemstones are not only real diamonds but also offer compelling advantages in terms of ethical and environmental considerations, quality control, and potential value appreciation.

With the rising interest among consumers in ethical diamond options, the lab grown diamond sector is expected to have a prominent role in shaping the future of the diamond industry. It's important for individuals to stay informed, rely on sources and make choices that resonate with their beliefs and tastes.

Ultimately, the choice between natural and lab-grown diamonds is a personal one, influenced by factors such as budget, ethical considerations, and individual preferences. However, by dispelling the myths and embracing the truth about lab-grown diamonds, consumers can make decisions with confidence, embracing a future where diamond ownership is more accessible, sustainable, and aligned with ethical practices.

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